principal quantum number
Americannoun
Etymology
Origin of principal quantum number
First recorded in 1920–25
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
As the principal quantum number, n, increases, the size of the orbital increases and the electrons spend more time farther from the nucleus.
From Textbooks • Feb. 14, 2019
The principal quantum number is one of three quantum numbers used to characterize an orbital.
From Textbooks • Feb. 14, 2019
As we go down the elements in a group, the number of electrons in the valence shell remains constant, but the principal quantum number increases by one each time.
From Textbooks • Feb. 14, 2019
We know that as we scan down a group, the principal quantum number, n, increases by one for each element.
From Textbooks • Feb. 14, 2019
Orbitals with the same principal quantum number and the same l value belong to the same subshell.
From Textbooks • Feb. 14, 2019
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
